Ching, a 34-year-old forward, says he is setting aside retirement plans and instead will play in a 12th MLS season. He said he told coach Dominic Kinnear just this week that he'd be back.

"I needed to step away for a bit and make sure that I still love it and have a passion for it," Ching said via the league's website. "Looking back and seeing how the season went and how I held up, I still feel like I can contribute.

"I think the fact that I didn't get injured at all last season was it. I didn't have to miss any time. I feel like I can play this role for another season."

Kinnear limited Ching's playing time — he started only six games last season — in the hopes of being able to extend his career.

"I just really want to feel like I'm bringing value," Ching said. "I don't want to be just holding on. I want to be someone who's contributing, but if the point comes at any time next season where I don't feel like I'm contributing or helping the team then I'll step aside and retire. As long as I still feel I can help the team I'd like to do that."